MSHA reports 2018 US mining fatalities were second lowest on record

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) reports that 27 mining fatalities occurred in 2018 – the second lowest number ever recorded.

18 fatalities occurred at surface operations; nine occurred in underground mines. Approximately 250 000 miners work across 12 000 US metal/nonmetal mines, and 83 000 miners work in the nation’s 1200 coal mines.

The leading cause of fatalities was powered haulage, which accounted for 13 fatalities or 48% of the annual total. MSHA has taken action to counter powered haulage fatalities, including publishing a request for information seeking stakeholder input on technologies and practices that can improve safety conditions related to mobile equipment and belt conveyors. MSHA also launched a campaign to educate miners and mine operators on the hazards associated with such equipment.